Sopa de Fideo

An authentic Sopa de Fideo recipe, you will be surprised how easy, quick, and delicious this soup is. It’s one of Mexico’s most classic soup recipes made with tomatoes, noodles, garlic, and broth. Loved by kids and adults alike, this comforting dish is perfect for family dinners, lunch gatherings, or cozy nights in.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 20 minutes from start to finish, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of tomatoes, garlic, and spices creates a rich base that delights the taste buds.
• Versatile Option: Serve it as an appetizer or a main course—this soup fits any occasion.
• Kid-Friendly: Its mild flavors make Sopa de Fideo a hit with children and adults alike.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients like tomatoes and broth, this soup is both comforting and healthy.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing Sopa de Fideo is straightforward with the right tools. Having the essential equipment on hand will make your cooking experience seamless and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Blender
• Soup pot (at least 4 quarts)
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Blender: Essential for creating a smooth tomato base; it ensures all flavors are well combined.
• Soup pot: A large pot allows you to toast the noodles properly while providing enough space for simmering.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware; it helps evenly mix the ingredients.

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Ingredients

For the Tomato Base

• 1 (28-ounce) can whole tomatoes
• 1/4 cup + 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 tablespoon fresh Mexican oregano (or Mediterranean oregano), chopped
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

For the Noodles

• 1 (7-ounce) package cut fideo pasta

For the Broth

• 1 quart chicken broth or vegetable broth

For Garnish

• 1/3 cup chopped cilantro

How to Make Sopa de Fideo

Step 1: Make Tomato Base

Combine the whole tomatoes, 1/4 cup of olive oil, garlic cloves, oregano, salt, and cumin in a blender. Blend on high until smooth. This forms a flavorful base for your soup.

Step 2: Toast Noodles

Heat the remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a soup pot over medium heat. Add the fideo pasta. Toast while stirring frequently until golden brown, which takes about 4 minutes.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

Add your freshly blended tomato base to the toasted noodles. Fry in the oil for one or two minutes before adding the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer until the pasta is cooked through—this should take about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Serve

Stir in chopped cilantro just before serving for an added burst of flavor. Enjoy your delicious Sopa de Fideo hot!

How to Serve Sopa de Fideo

Sopa de Fideo is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer it simple or with added toppings, there are many serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

Classic Toppings

• Avocado slices – Creamy avocado adds richness and a fresh flavor.
• Lime wedges – A squeeze of lime brightens the soup and adds zest.
• Crumbled queso fresco – This mild cheese provides a delightful contrast to the soup’s warmth.

Add-Ins

• Shredded chicken – For extra protein, add some shredded cooked chicken on top.
• Chopped green onions – These will add a sharp, fresh taste that complements the soup.
• Diced jalapeños – If you like heat, sprinkle diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Accompaniments

• Tortilla chips – Crunchy tortilla chips add texture and can be used to scoop up the soup.
• Corn tortillas – Warm corn tortillas served on the side are perfect for dipping.

How to Perfect Sopa de Fideo

To make your Sopa de Fideo truly exceptional, follow these helpful tips. They will ensure that every bowl is bursting with flavor.

• Use ripe tomatoes – Fresh, ripe tomatoes enhance the soup’s natural sweetness and depth.
• Toast the noodles thoroughly – Properly toasting the fideo pasta gives it a nutty flavor and prevents it from becoming mushy.
• Adjust seasoning carefully – Taste as you go; adding salt gradually helps achieve the perfect flavor balance.
• Experiment with broth types – Using homemade chicken or vegetable broth can elevate the overall taste of your soup.

Best Side Dishes for Sopa de Fideo

Pairing Sopa de Fideo with complementary side dishes makes for a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Mexican Rice – Fluffy rice seasoned with spices pairs perfectly with the soup’s flavors.
2. Black Beans – A side of seasoned black beans provides protein and fiber, enhancing your meal’s nutrition.
3. Guacamole – Creamy guacamole adds a rich texture that contrasts nicely with the soup’s broth.
4. Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet grilled corn offers a delightful crunch and sweetness alongside your soup.
5. Pico de Gallo – Fresh tomatoes, onions, and cilantro in this salad bring brightness to your plate.
6. Chiles Rellenos – Stuffed peppers offer a satisfying contrast with their cheesy filling and flavorful sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Sopa de Fideo can be simple, but there are common mistakes that could affect your soup’s flavor and texture.

• Skipping the toasting step: Toasting the fideo pasta is crucial. It enhances the flavor and prevents it from becoming mushy. Always toast until golden brown.
• Not blending the tomato base enough: A smooth tomato base creates a rich flavor. Ensure you blend thoroughly until there are no chunks.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: The soup can be under-seasoned if you don’t taste as you go. Adjust salt and spices according to your preference.
• Using low-quality broth: A good-quality broth makes a significant difference. Opt for homemade or trusted store-bought chicken or vegetable broth.
• Overcooking the noodles: Fideo pasta cooks quickly. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking, which can lead to a mushy texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool before sealing the container.

Freezing Sopa de Fideo

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Sopa de Fideo

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Sopa de Fideo.

What is Sopa de Fideo?

Sopa de Fideo is a traditional Mexican noodle soup made with tomatoes, garlic, and broth. It’s a comforting dish enjoyed by many.

Can I customize my Sopa de Fideo?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, or even proteins like chicken or turkey for extra flavor and nutrition.

How do I store leftover Sopa de Fideo?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.

What type of broth works best for Sopa de Fideo?

Both chicken and vegetable broths work well. Choose based on your preference or dietary needs.

Final Thoughts

Sopa de Fideo is not only quick and easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with various ingredients according to your taste. Give this delightful recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!